Nikon AF-S Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR IF Lens
The Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR IF is a 70–300mm f/4.5 lens designed for Nikon F mount cameras. Used copies start from $415 on GearFocus, with buyer protection on every purchase.
Nikon AF-S Nikkor 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR IF Lens
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Lens Overview — Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR IF
Key Features — Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR IF
70-300mm Telephoto Zoom: Covers a versatile range from short telephoto portraits at 70mm to distant subject reach at 300mm on full-frame bodies.
Vibration Reduction (VR): Built-in optical image stabilization compensates for camera shake, particularly useful at the longer end of the zoom range during handheld shooting.
ED Glass Element: Extra-low Dispersion glass minimizes chromatic aberration and color fringing, helping to maintain sharpness and contrast across the zoom range.
Silent Wave Motor (AF-S): Internal ultrasonic autofocus motor delivers fast, quiet focusing — well suited for wildlife and event shooting where noise is a concern.
Internal Focus (IF): The lens focuses internally, meaning overall length does not change during focusing and the front element does not rotate.
Auto/Manual Focus Switch: A dedicated switch allows quick toggling between autofocus and manual focus modes without entering camera menus.
Lens Specifications — Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR IF
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Use Cases | Wildlife, Sports, Travel |
| Lens Type | Zoom |
| Format | Full Frame |
| Zoom/Prime | Zoom |
| Focal Length | 70–300mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/4.5 |
| Camera System | DSLR |
| Lens Mount | Nikon F |
| Autofocus | Yes |
| Focus Type | Auto, Manual |
| Image Stabilization | Optical (OIS) |
| Filter Thread | 67mm |
Description — Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR IF
The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 70-300mm is a full-frame telephoto zoom lens designed for Nikon F-mount DSLR cameras. It spans a focal length range of 70mm to 300mm, making it a practical choice for photographers who need extended reach across a variety of subjects. The lens supports both autofocus and manual focus, providing adaptability whether you're tracking moving subjects or dialing in precise focus manually. Optical image stabilization is integrated into the design, helping to counteract the effects of camera shake — a particularly useful feature at longer focal lengths where even small movements can affect sharpness.
The 67mm filter thread allows straightforward use of standard accessory filters, and the lens weighs 745g, reflecting a balance between optical capability and portability. With a maximum aperture of f/4.5, it is suited to well-lit environments and outdoor use where its telephoto range truly shines. Compatible with the Nikon F mount, it fits into a wide ecosystem of Nikon DSLR bodies.
Pros — Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR IF
- ✓Wide 70–300mm focal length range offers versatile telephoto reach on full-frame Nikon F-mount bodies
- ✓Built-in optical image stabilization helps manage camera shake during handheld telephoto shooting
- ✓Supports both autofocus and manual focus, giving flexible control across different shooting scenarios
Cons — Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR IF
- ✗Maximum aperture of f/4.5 at the wide end and a narrower aperture at 300mm limits performance in lower light conditions
- ✗At 745g, the lens adds meaningful weight to a camera kit, which may be a consideration for travel or extended handheld use
- ✗Zoom lens design means aperture varies across the focal range, which can require exposure adjustments when zooming
Reviews — Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR IF
- Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G VR Review
Photography Life · 2011-12-05 - Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G AF-S VR Nikkor Lens Review
ePHOTOzine · 2011-06-23 - Nikon AF-S 70-300mm G ED VR lens review with samples
Christopher Frost - The Angry Photographer: Nikkor 70-300 VR. Nikon Lens Secrets to save you $$
Theoria Apophasis
Videos — Nikon 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR IF
NIKON 70-300mm AF-P f/4.5-5.6 E ED VR - REVIEW — Wim Bals



